Working Adults Can Pursue an MPA Degree Using Online Education

Professionals can now earn MPA degrees online.Oftentimes, professionals who want to advance their careers and become medical and health service managers, political scientists or various types of government officials need a master's degree in public administration.

However, with a full-time job and other responsibilities, it can be difficult for these individuals to go back to school.

Today, with the growing popularity of online master's programs, many schools are attempting to solve this problem and make it easier for working professionals to earn a degree. For example, Villanova University recently announced in a press release that individuals can now earn a Master of Public Administration (MPA) over the internet.

The curriculum used in the new online program will be the same one students follow when they pursue this credential on Villanova's campus, training participants in areas such as strategic planning, organizational effectiveness, leadership, ethics and finance.

"Villanova is very pleased to bring the MPA program online, enabling professionals everywhere to enhance their expertise," Adele Lindenmeyr, dean of graduate studies for Villanova’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, said in a statement. "With our strong curriculum, dedicated educators and 15-year campus history, the MPA will give them the knowledge they need to become thoughtful leaders who bring about positive change in the world."

Still, individuals who wish to pursue this credential through a web-based program may continue to find more options to do so as online education becomes increasingly popular. According to a 2011 report by the Sloan Consortium, enrollment in online programs grew by 10% between fall 2010 and fall 2011, far exceeding the 2% growth rate for overall higher education.